Fluorinated esters as lubricants for heat transfer fluids

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides compounds of formula (I): wherein W is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I; 10 X is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, CW 3  and OR on the basis that at least one X is OR; R is independently selected from the group consisting of C(O) (CH 2  ) m (CF 2  ) n Y and CW 2 C(CW 2 OC(O)(CH 2  )m(CF 2  )nY) 3 ; m is an integer from 0 to 2; 15 n is an integer from 2 to 8; Y is C(Z) 3 ; and Z is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I. Such compounds may be utilised as lubricants, for example in heat transfer compositions.

The listing or discussion of information or a prior-published document in this specification should not necessarily be taken as an acknowledgement that the information or document is part of the state of the art or is common general knowledge.

Fluorocarbon-based compounds are currently used in a large number of commercial and industrial applications, such as propellants, blowing agents and heat transfer fluids. The interest in and use of fluorine-based compounds, particularly (hydro)fluoroolefins, as heat transfer fluids has increased as new refrigerants are sought.

Dichlorodifluoromethane (refrigerant R-12) possessed a suitable combination of refrigerant properties and was for many years the most widely used refrigerant. Due to international concern that fully and partially halogenated chlorofluorocarbons, such as dichlorodifluoromethane and chlorodifluoromethane, were damaging the earth's protective ozone layer, there was general agreement that their manufacture and use should be severely restricted and eventually phased out completely. The use of dichlorodifluoromethane was phased out in the 1990's.

Chlorodifluoromethane (R-22) was introduced as a replacement for R-12 because of its lower ozone depletion potential. Following concerns that R-22 is a potent greenhouse gas, its use is also being phased out. R-410A and R-407 (including R-407A, R-407B and R-407C) have been introduced as a replacement refrigerant for R-22. However, R-22, R-410A and the R-407 refrigerants all have a high global warming potential (GWP, also known as greenhouse warming potential).

1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (refrigerant R-134a) was introduced as a replacement refrigerant for R-12. However, despite having a low ozone depletion potential, R-134a has a GWP of 1430. It would be desirable to find replacements for R-134a that have a lower GWP.

R-152a (1,1-difluoroethane) has been identified as an alternative to R-134a. It is somewhat more efficient than R-134a and has a greenhouse warming potential of 120. However the flammability of R-152a is judged too high, for example to permit its safe use in mobile air conditioning systems. In particular its lower flammable limit in air is too low, its flame speeds are too high, and its ignition energy is too low.

(Hydro)fluoroolefins, particularly tetrafluoropropenes, have been proposed as possible refrigerants for use in a variety of heat transfer devices.

Heat transfer fluids are often used in combination with lubricants, such as in heating and refrigeration systems. Such lubricants are included in heat transfer compositions to ensure continued smooth operation of the heat transfer system.

It is necessary that lubricants used in heat transfer compositions are compatible with the refrigerants in the compositions. The compatibility of the lubricant and the refrigerant is predicated on a number of factors, such as a desire for at least partial miscibility at part of the operating temperature range, a low tendency to degrade or react in use and appropriate viscosities for the application.

There is, therefore, a need for lubricants that can be used in conjunction with heat transfer fluids, both those currently used and those proposed as replacement compositions. In particular, lubricants are desired that are miscible with a wide range of heat transfer fluids, possess an appropriate viscosity, do not reduce the performance of heat transfer fluids and have low flammability; all in addition to successfully functioning as a lubricant.

Lubricants with low flammability are particularly important for heat transfer fluids that are used in automobile air-conditioning, as such compositions are in danger of coming into contact with hot metal surfaces of the engine.

The subject invention addresses the above and other deficiencies by the provision of a compound of formula (I):

wherein

W is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I;

X is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, CW₃ and OR on the basis that at least one X is OR;

R is independently selected from the group consisting of C(O)(CH₂ )_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y and CW₂C(CW₂OC(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y)₃;

m is an integer from 0 to 2;

n is an integer from 2 to 8;

Y is C(Z)₃; and

Z is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I.

Further provided by the invention is a lubricant composition, and uses thereof, wherein the composition comprises a compound of formula (I).

Also provided by the invention is a heat transfer composition, and uses thereof, wherein the heat transfer composition comprises a heat transfer portion, together with one or more compounds of formula (I).

Further provided by the invention is a method of preparing a compound of formula (I) comprising reacting a compound of formula (A) with a compound of formula (B):

wherein

W is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I;

X is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, CW₃ and R, on the basis that at least one X is OR;

R is independently selected from the group consisting of H and CW₂C(CW₂OH)₃;

m is an integer from 0 to 2;

n is an integer from 2 to 8;

V is OH, F, Cl, Br or I;

Y is C(Z)₃; and

Z is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I.

Compounds of the Invention

In one aspect, the invention provides a compound of formula (I):

wherein

W is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I;

X is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, CW₃ and OR on the basis that at least one X is OR;

R is independently selected from the group consisting of C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y and CW₂C(CW₂OC(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y)₃;

m is an integer from 0 to 2;

n is an integer from 2 to 8;

Y is C(Z)₃; and

Z is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I.

Such compounds show excellent resistance to ignition, including when exposed to hot surfaces.

In an embodiment, two of the X substituents are OR and the other two X substituents are, preferably, H. Preferably W is H. Advantageously, R is C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y. Preferably, m is and integer of 0 or 1, for example, 0. Favourably, n is an integer from 5 to 8, such as 5 or 6. Preferably, when m is 0, n is an integer of 5 or 6. Alternatively, when m is 1, n is an integer from 4 to 7. Preferably, Y is C(Z)₃, wherein, Z is advantageously H or F. Advantageously, Z is CF₃ or CF₂H.

In a further embodiment, two of the X substituents are OR and the other two X substituents are, preferably, H. Preferably W is H. Advantageously, R is independently selected from the group consisting of C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H and C(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃.

In an alternative embodiment, three of the X substituents are OR and the other X substituent is CW₃, preferably W is H. Advantageously, R is C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y. Preferably, m is and integer of 0 or 1, for example, 0. Favourably, n is an integer from 5 to 8, such as 5 or 6. Preferably, when m is 0, n is an integer of 5 or 6. Alternatively, when m is 1, n is an integer from 4 to 7. Preferably, Y is C(Z)₃, wherein, Z is advantageously H or F. Advantageously, Z is CF₃ or CF₂H.

In a further embodiment, three of the X substituents are OR and the other X substituent is CW₃, preferably W is H. Advantageously, R is independently selected from the group consisting of C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H and C(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃.

In an embodiment, all four of the X substituents are OR and, preferably, W is H. Advantageously, R is C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y. Preferably, m is and integer of 0 or 1, for example, 0. Favourably, n is an integer from 5 to 8, such as 5 or 6. Preferably, when m is 0, n is an integer of 5 or 6. Alternatively, when m is 1, n is an integer from 4 to 7. Preferably, Y is C(Z)₃, wherein, Z is advantageously H or F. Advantageously, Z is CF₃ or CF₂H.

In an embodiment, all four of the X substituents are OR and, preferably, W is H. Advantageously, R is independently selected from the group consisting of C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H and C(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃.

In an even further embodiment, all four of the X substituents are OR, preferably W is H, wherein three of the R substituents are C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y and the remaining R substituent is CW₂C(CW₂OC(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y)₃. Preferably, m is and integer of 0 or 1, for example, 0. Favourably, n is an integer from 5 to 8, such as 5 or 6. Preferably, when m is 0, n is an integer of 5 or 6. Alternatively, when m is 1, n is an integer from 4 to 7. Preferably, Y is C(Z)₃, wherein, Z is advantageously H or F. Advantageously, Z is CF₃ or CF₂H.

In a further embodiment, all four of the X substituents are OR, preferably W is H. Advantageously, three of the R substituents are independently selected from the group consisting of C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H and C(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃ and the remaining R substituent is independently selected from the group consisting of CH₂C(COC(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃)₃, CH₂C(COC(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H)₃ and CH₂C(COC(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃)₃.

In some embodiments, the R groups of formula (I) may all be the same. In other embodiments, the R groups will be independently selected from the groups detailed above.

In an embodiment, the compound of formula (I) may have a structure according to formula (II), wherein R is C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y. Preferably, R may be independently selected from the group consisting of —C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, —C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H and —C(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃.

In another embodiment, the compound of formula (I) may have a structure according to formula (III), wherein R is C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y. Preferably, R may be independently selected from the group consisting of —C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, —C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H and —C(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃.

In a further embodiment, the compound of formula (I) may have a structure according to formula (IV), wherein R is C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y. Preferably, R may be independently selected from the group consisting of —C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, —C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H and —C(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃.

In an alternative embodiment, the compound of formula (I) may have a structure according to formula (IV), wherein three R substituents are C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y and the remaining R substituent is CW₂C(CW₂OC(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y)₃. Preferably, W is H. Advantageously, m is 0. Optionally, n is 5 or 6. Preferably, Y is CF₃ or CF₂H. Preferably, three of the R substituents are independently selected from the group consisting of —C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, —C(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H and —C(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃, and the remaining R substituent is chosen from the group consisting of —CH₂C(CH₂OC(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃)₃, —CH₂C(CH₂OC(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H)₃ and —CH₂C(CH₂OC(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃)₃. To aid visually, substituting the portion of CW₂C(CW₂OC(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y)₃ that is in parentheses with CW₂OR′, and making W equal to H, would result in R being independently selected from C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y or CH₂C(CH₂OR′)₃. Therefore, in this embodiment where three R substituents are C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y, the remaining R substituent is CW₂C(CW₂OC(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y)₃ and W is H, the compound of formula (I) may be represented by a structure according to formula (V).

In another aspect, the invention provides a lubricant composition comprising one or more compounds of formula (I). Preferably, the compound of formula (I) is in a proporation of at least 10 wt % to at least 50 wt % of the lubricant. More preferably, the compound of formula (I) comprises at least 80 wt % or 90 wt % of the lubricant.

In a further aspect of the invention, there is a provided a composition comprising a compound of formula (I).

In an embodiment, the composition may comprise at least two different compounds of formula (I). Preferably, the at least two different compounds may be present in the composition in a ratio of from around 1:10 to around 10:1, for example, 5-1:1-5.

The compounds of formula (I) are less flammable than polyalkylene glycol (PAG) and/or polyol ester (POE) based lubricants. Preferably, the compounds of formula (I) have a lowest temperature of ignition of about 500° C. or greater, such as 510° C., 520° C., 530° C., 540° C., 550° C., 560° C., 570° C., 580° C., 590° C., preferably about 600° C. or greater, for example 610° C., 620° C., 630° C. or 640° C.

Advantageously, the compounds of formula (I) have a high degree of miscibility with heat transfer fluids, particularly fluorine-based heat transfer fluids.

Preferably, the compounds of formula (I) will have a melting point of from about −20° C. to about −70° C., such as from about −25° C. to about −60° C., preferably from about −30° C. to about −50° C.

Preferably, the compounds of formula (I) will have a viscosity appropriate for use with heat transfer fluids, such as in refrigeration or air-conditioning devices. Conveniently, compounds of formula (I) with have a viscosity of from about 5 to about 220 cSt, such as from 10 to about 200 cSt, from about 15 to about 150 cSt or from about 20 to about 125 cSt. Preferably, the compounds of formula (I) will have a viscosity of from about 32 to about 100 cSt.

The compounds of formula (I) may be further used as heat transfer agents.

Compositions of the Invention

In another aspect, the invention provides a heat transfer composition, comprising a heat transfer portion together with one or more compounds of formula (I).

Such lubricant/heat transfer component compositions show low flammability, such as when sprayed onto hot surfaces or sprayed through a flame.

Preferably, the heat transfer portion comprises one or more compounds selected from the group of (hydro)fluoroolefins (HFOs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and hydrocarbons.

Advantageously, the heat transfer portion may comprise one or more compounds selected from the group of 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234ze), 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R-1234yf), 3,3,3-trifluoropropene (R-1243zf), 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (R-134a), trifluoroethene (R1123), 1,1-difluoroethene (R-1132a), 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutene (R1336mzz), 1,1-difluoroethane (R-152a), difluoromethane (R-32), fluoroethane (R-161), pentafluoroethane (R-125), 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane (R-134), propane, propylene, carbon dioxide, 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane (R-245fa), 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexofluoropropane (R-236fa), 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-heptafluoropropane (R-227ea), 1,1,1-trifluoroethane (R-143a), n-butane, iso-butane and 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane (R-365mfc), such as R-1234ze, R-1234yf, R-1243zf, R-134a, R-152a and R-32.

For the avoidance of doubt, it is to be understood that where a compound may exist as one of two configurational isomers, e.g. cis and trans isomers around a double bond, the use of the term without an isomer designation (e.g. R-1234ze) is to refer to either isomer.

Conveniently, the heat transfer portion comprises tetrafluoropropenes. Preferably, the heat transfer portion comprises R-1234ze, even more preferably the heat transfer portion comprises R-1234ze(E). Advantageously, the heat transfer composition comprises R-1234yf.

Advantageously, compositions of the invention are less flammable than a composition comprising the same heat transfer portion combined with a polyalkylene glycol (PAG) and/or a polyol ester (POE) based lubricant.

Conveniently, the compositions of the invention are less flammable than the heat transfer portion alone.

Preferably, the composition of the invention has a lowest temperature of ignition of about 500° C. or greater, such as 510° C., 520° C., 530° C., 540° C., 550° C., 560° C., 570° C., 580° C., 590° C., preferably about 600° C. or greater, for example 610° C., 620° C., 630° C. or 640° C.

In an embodiment, the composition of the invention may be non-flammable.

Flammability may be determined in accordance with ASHRAE Standard 34 incorporating the ASTM Standard E-681 with test methodology as per Addendum 34p dated 2004, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Conveniently, the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of the compositions of the invention may be less than about 3500, 3000, 2500 or 2000. For instance, the GWP may be less than 2500, 2400, 2300, 2200, 2100, 2000, 1900, 1800, 1700, 1600 or 1500. The GWP of the compositions of the invention preferably is less than 1400, 1300, 1200, 1100, 1000, 900, 800, 700, 600 or 500.

Preferably, the compositions of the invention have zero or near zero ozone depletion.

In an embodiment, the compositions of the invention have improved heat transfer properties than the heat transfer fluid alone.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that compounds of formula (I) may further act as heat transfer agents and therefore increase the heat transfer properties of the compositions of the invention.

Advantageously, the composition further comprises a stabiliser.

Preferably the stabiliser is selected from group consisting of diene-based compounds, phosphates, phenol compounds and epoxides, and mixtures thereof.

Conveniently, the composition further comprises an additional flame retardant.

Preferably, the flame retardant is selected from the group consisting of tri-(2-chloroethyl)-phosphate, (chloropropyl) phosphate, tri-(2,3-dibromopropyl)-phosphate, tri-(1,3-dichloropropyl)-phosphate, diammonium phosphate, various halogenated aromatic compounds, antimony oxide, aluminium trihydrate, polyvinyl chloride, a fluorinated iodocarbon, a fluorinated bromocarbon, trifluoro iodomethane, perfluoroalkyl amines, bromo-fluoroalkyl amines and mixtures thereof.

The invention also provides a heat transfer device containing a composition of the invention and/or the use of a composition of the invention in a heat transfer device.

In an embodiment, the heat transfer device is a refrigeration device.

Conveniently, the heat transfer device is selected from the group consisting of automotive air conditioning systems, residential air conditioning systems, commercial air conditioning systems, residential refrigerator systems, residential freezer systems, commercial refrigerator systems, commercial freezer systems, chiller air conditioning systems, chiller refrigeration systems, and commercial or residential heat pump systems.

Preferably, the heat transfer device contains a compressor.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of cooling an article, which comprises condensing a composition of the invention and thereafter evaporating the composition in the vicinity of the article to be cooled.

According to an another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for heating an article, which comprises condensing a composition of the invention in the vicinity of the article to be heated and thereafter evaporating the composition.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a mechanical power generation device containing a composition of the invention.

Preferably, the mechanical power generating device is adapted to use a Rankine Cycle or modification thereof to generate work from heat.

According to an another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of retrofitting a heat transfer device comprising the step of removing an existing heat transfer fluid and introducing a composition of the invention. Preferably, the heat transfer device is a refrigeration device. Advantageously, the heat transfer device is an air-conditioning system.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of reducing the flammability of a composition by the addition of one or more different compounds of formula (I).

Methods of Preparation of Compounds and Compositions of the Invention

The invention provides a method of preparing a compound of formula (I) comprising reacting a compound of formula (A) with a compound of formula (B):

wherein

W is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I;

X is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, CW₃ and R, on the basis that at least one X is OR;

R is independently selected from the group consisting of H and CW₂C(CW₂OH)₃;

m is an integer from 0 to 2;

n is an integer from 2 to 8;

V is OH, F, Cl, Br or I;

Y is C(Z)₃; and

Z is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I.

In an embodiment, in the compound according to formula (A), two of the X substituents are OR and the other two X substituents are H. Preferably, W is H. Advantageously, R is H.

In another embodiment, in the compound according to formula (A), three of the X substituents are OR and the other X substituent is CW₃. Preferably, W is H. Advantageously, R is H.

In a further embodiment, in the compound according to formula (A), all four of the X substituents are OR. Preferably, W is H. Advantageously, R is H.

In another embodiment, in the compound according to formula (A), three of the X substituents are OR and the remaining X substituent is CW₂C(CW₂OH)₃. Preferably, W is H. Advantageously, R is H.

In an embodiment, the compound according to formula (A) may be selected from the list consisting of pentaerythitol, trimethylolpropane, di-pentaerythritol and neopentylene glcycol.

In an embodiment, in the compound according to formula (B), m is an integer of 0 or 1, for example 0. Favourably, n is an integer from 5 to 8, such as 5 or 6. Preferably, when m is 0, n is an integer of 5 or 6. Alternatively, when m is 1, n is an integer from 4 to 7. Preferably, Y is C(Z)₃, wherein, Z is advantageously H or F. Advantageously, Z is CF₃ or CF₂H. Preferably, V is Cl or Br.

In a further embodiment, the compound according to formula (B) may be selected from the list consisting of CO₂H(CF₂)₅CF₃, CO₂H(CF₂)₅CF₂H and CO₂H(CF₂)₆CF₃.

In another embodiment, the compound according to formula (B) may be selected from the list consisting of ClC(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, ClC(O)(CF₂)₅CF₂H and ClC(O)(CF₂)₆CF₃.

In an embodiment, the method may proceed via the reaction of at least two different compounds of formula (A) with at least two different compounds of formula (B).

Preferably, the molar ratio of compound of formula (A) to compound of formula (B) is at least 1:2.

In some embodiments, the method is conducted in one-step reaction.

Compositions of the invention may be prepared by the method of mixing one or more compounds of formula (I) with a heat transfer fluid.

Compositions of the invention may be prepared by mixing one or more compounds of formula (I), prepared through a method of the invention, with a heat transfer fluid.

Preferably, the heat transfer fluid comprises one or more compounds selected from the group of (hydro)fluoroolefins (HFOs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and hydrocarbons.

Advantageously, the heat transfer fluid comprises one or more compounds selected from the group of R-1234ze, R-1234yf, R-1243zf, R-134a, R-152a, R-32, R-161, R-125, R-134, propane, propylene, carbon dioxide, R-245fa, R-236fa, R-227ea, R-143a, n-butane, iso-butane and R-365 mfc.

Conveniently, wherein the heat transfer fluid comprises one or more compounds selected from the group of R-1234ze, R-1234yf, R-1243zf, R-134a, R-152a and R-32.

Preferably, the heat transfer fluid comprises R-1234ze.

Preferably, the heat transfer fluid comprises R-1234yf.

Compounds of Formula (I) may be provided by the following method. To a mixture of 6.7 g of trimethylolpropane and 62.1 g perfluoroocatanoic acid, heated to the melting point, 1 ml of sulphuric acid was added drop-wise, after which the heating was continued for 2 hours. The resulting mixture was washed with water, sodium carbonate solution and again dried with ware, dried over CaCl₂ and distilled in an oil pump vacuum.

An alternative method of making compounds of Formula (I) is as follows. 1.97 mmol of an acyl chloride and 0.66 mmol of a polyol were mixed in a round bottomed flask and heated at 70 to 150° C. for 12 hours. The solution was allowed to cool and the excess acid chloride was removed by distillation. The resulting compound was then optionally purified via silica gel chromatography.

A further alternative method of making compounds of Formula (I) is as follows. A 3-necked round bottom flask, fitted with a dropping funnel and a condenser, was flame dried and placed under a N₂ atmosphere. The alcohol was added to the round bottom flask at room temperature. The fluorinated or partially fluorinated acid chloride was dispensed in a glovebox and transferred to the alcohol via the dropping funnel at 0° C. The reaction mixture was then slowly heated to reflux and left until no further hydrogen chloride was evolved. The mixture was then distilled under vacuum.

Using this method a series of fluorinated polyesters were prepared, see Table 1.

TABLE 1 Example Structure 1

2

3

4

Hot Manifold Testing

An assessment was made of the ease of ignition of the fluid of Example 4 when in contact with a hot metal surface, using the test apparatus and test method as described in ISO Standard ISO 20823:2003. In this test droplets of the fluid were allowed to fall vertically downwards onto an internally heated, cylindrical hot surface, inclined at a shallow angle to the horizontal, and which was additionally fitted with a horizontal gutter to trap liquid at one side of the cylindrical body. (The surface is hereinafter described as the “manifold”).

The temperature of the manifold was increased stepwise until ignition was observed. Observations on the character and vigour of ignition were also recorded during each test. Five fluids of the invention, two PAG type lubricants (Nippon Denso ND12 and Daphne FD46XG, Comparative Examples 1 and 2 respectively) and one POE lubricant (Emkarate RL68H, Comparative Example 3) were tested.

TABLE 2 Highest Lowest temperature temperature without ignition with ignition Example (° C.) (° C.) Observations 4 635 640 15 s delay before ignition Comparative 438 443 Immediate ignition; Example 1 burning liquid collected Comparative 462 467 Immediate ignition; Example 2 burning liquid collected Comparative 628 633 Immediate ignition; Example 3 gas above tray also ignited by droplets

As can be seen from the results above, it was found that the fluorinated species exhibited elevated combustion temperature compared to commercially available polyalkylene glycol (PAG) and polyol ester (POE) lubricant materials.

Preferences and options for a given aspect, feature or parameter of the invention should, unless the context indicates otherwise, be regarded as having been disclosed in combination with any and all preferences and options for all other aspects, features and parameters of the invention.

Where a molecule, for example HFO-1234ze, may take the form of E and Z isomers, the general disclosure of that molecule is intended to refer equally to both the E and Z isomers.

The invention is defined by the following claims. 

1. A compound of formula (I):

wherein W is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I; X is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, CW₃ and OR on the basis that at least one X is OR; R is independently selected from the group consisting of C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y and CW₂C(CW₂OC(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y)₃; m is an integer from 0 to 2; n is an integer from 2 to 8; Y is C(Z)₃; and Z is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I.
 2. A compound according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the X substituents are OR.
 3. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least three of the X substituents are OR.
 4. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein all four of the X substituents are OR.
 5. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein R is C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y.
 6. A compound according to claim 2, wherein two X substituents are H.
 7. A compound according to claim 3, wherein one X substituent is CW₃.
 8. A compound according to claim 4, wherein one R substituent is CW₂C(CW₂OC(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y)₃.
 9. A compound according to claim 8, wherein three R substituents are C(O)(CH₂)_(m)(CF₂)_(n)Y.
 10. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein when m is 0 n is an integer from 5 to
 8. 11. A compound according to claim 10, wherein when m is 0 n is an integer of 5 or
 6. 12. A compound according to any one of the claims 1 to 9, wherein when m is 1 n is an integer from 4 to
 7. 13. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein Y is independently selected from the group consisting of CF₃ and CF₂H.
 14. A compound according to claim 10, wherein Y is CF₃.
 15. A compound according to claim 10, wherein Y is CF₂H and m is
 5. 16. A compound according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein W is H.
 17. A lubricant composition comprising a compound according to any one of the preceding claims, preferably in a proportion of at least 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 wt % of the total weight of the lubricant.
 18. A composition comprising at least two different compounds of formula (I) as described in any one of claims 1 to
 16. 19. A heat transfer composition, comprising a heat transfer portion together with one or more compounds as defined in any one of claims 1 to 16 and/or a composition as defined in claims 17 or
 18. 20. A composition according to claim 19, wherein the heat transfer portion comprises one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of (hydro)fluoroolefins (HFOs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and hydrocarbons.
 21. A composition according to claim 19, wherein the heat transfer portion comprises one or more compounds selected from the group of R-1234ze, R-1234yf, R-1243zf, R1123, R-1132a, R1336mzz, R-134a, R-152a, R-32, R-161, R-125, R-134, propane, propylene, carbon dioxide, R-245fa, R-236fa, R-227ea, R-143a, n-butane, iso-butane and R-365mfc.
 22. A composition according to claim 19 wherein the heat transfer portion comprises one or more compounds selected from the group of R-1234ze, R-1234yf, R-1243zf, R-134a, R-152a and R-32.
 23. A composition according to claim 19 wherein the heat transfer portion comprises R-1234ze.
 24. A composition according to claim 19 wherein the heat transfer portion comprises R-1234yf.
 25. A composition according to any one of claims 19 to 24, which is less flammable than a composition comprising the same heat transfer portion combined with a polyalkylene glycol (PAG) and/or polyol ester (POE) based lubricant.
 26. A composition according to any one of claims 19 to 24, which is less flammable than the heat transfer portion.
 27. A composition according to any one of claims 19 to 24, which has an ignition temperature of about 500° C. or greater, preferably about 600° C. or greater.
 28. A composition according to any one of claims 19 to 26, which is non-flammable.
 29. A composition according to claims 19 to 28 further comprising a stabiliser.
 30. A composition according to claim 29, wherein the stabiliser is selected from diene-based compounds, phosphates, phenol compounds and epoxides, and mixtures thereof.
 31. A composition according to any one of claims 19 to 30 comprising an additional flame retardant.
 32. A composition according to claim 31, wherein the flame retardant is selected from the group consisting of tri-(2-chloroethyl)-phosphate, (chloropropyl) phosphate, tri-(2,3-dibromopropyl)-phosphate, tri-(1,3-dichloropropyl)-phosphate, diammonium phosphate, various halogenated aromatic compounds, antimony oxide, aluminium trihydrate, polyvinyl chloride, a fluorinated iodocarbon, a fluorinated bromocarbon, trifluoro iodomethane, perfluoroalkyl amines, bromo-fluoroalkyl amines and mixtures thereof.
 33. A heat transfer device containing a composition as defined in any of claims 19 to
 32. 34. Use of a composition defined in any of claims 19 to 32 in a heat transfer device.
 35. A heat transfer device according to claim 33 or the use according to claim 34, which is a refrigeration device.
 36. A heat transfer device or use according to claim 35, which is selected from the group consisting of automotive air conditioning systems, residential air conditioning systems, commercial air conditioning systems, residential refrigerator systems, residential freezer systems, commercial refrigerator systems, commercial freezer systems, chiller air conditioning systems, chiller refrigeration systems, and commercial or residential heat pump systems.
 37. A heat transfer device or use according to claim 34 or 35, which contains a compressor.
 38. A method of cooling an article, which comprises condensing a composition as defined in claims 19 to 32 and thereafter evaporating the composition in the vicinity of the article to be cooled.
 39. A method for heating an article, which comprises condensing a composition as defined in any one of claims 19 to 32 in the vicinity of the article to be heated and thereafter evaporating the composition.
 40. A mechanical power generation device containing a composition as defined in any one of claims 19 to
 32. 41. A mechanical power generating device according to claim 40, which is adapted to use a Rankine Cycle or modification thereof to generate work from heat.
 42. A method of retrofitting a heat transfer device comprising the step of removing an existing heat transfer fluid and introducing a composition as defined in claims 19 to
 32. 43. A method according to claim 42 wherein the heat transfer device is a refrigeration device.
 44. A method according to claim 43 wherein the heat transfer device is an air-conditioning system.
 45. A method of reducing the flammability of a composition by the addition of one or more different compounds of formula (I) as described in any one of claims 1 to
 16. 46. A method of preparing a compound of formula (I) comprising reacting a compound of formula (A) with a compound of formula (B):

wherein W is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I; X is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, I, CW₃ and R, on the basis that at least one X is OR; R is independently selected from the group consisting of H and CW₂C(CW₂OH)₃; m is an integer from 0 to 2; n is an integer from 2 to 8; V is OH, F, Cl, Br or I; Y is C(Z)₃; and Z is independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br and I;
 47. A method according to claim 46, wherein at least two of the X substituents are OR.
 48. A method according to claim 46 or 47, wherein at least three of the X substituents are OR.
 49. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 48, wherein all four of the X substituents are OR.
 50. A method according to claim 47, wherein two X substituents are H.
 51. A method according to claim 48, wherein one X substituent is CW₃.
 52. A method according to any one of the claims 46 to 51, wherein W is H.
 53. A method according to claim 48, wherein the remaining X substituent is CW₂C(CW₂OH)₃.
 54. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 53, wherein when m is 0 n is an integer from 5 to
 8. 55. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 53, wherein when m is 1 n is an integer from 4 to
 7. 56. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 55, wherein Y is independently selected from the group consisting of CF₃ and CF₂H.
 57. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 56, wherein V is OH.
 58. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 56, wherein V is is Cl or Br.
 59. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 53, wherein the compound according to formula B is selected from the group consisting of CO₂H(CF₂)₅CF₃, CO₂H(CF₂)₅CF₂H and CO₂H(CF₂)₆CF₃.
 60. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 53, wherein the compound according to formula B is selected from the group consisting of ClC(O)(CF₂)₅CF₃, ClC(O) (CF₂)₅CF₂H and ClC(O)H(CF₂)₆CF₃.
 61. A method according to any one of claims 46, and 54 to 60, wherein the compound according to formula A is selected from the group consisting of pentaerythitol, trimethylolpropane, di-pentaerythritol and neopentylene glcycol.
 62. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 61 comprising reacting at least two different compounds of formula (A) with at least two different compounds of formula (B).
 63. A method according to any of claims 46 to 62 wherein the ratio of compound of formula (A) to compound of formula (B) is at least 1:2.
 64. A method according to any one of claims 46 to 63, which is conducted in a one-step reaction.
 65. A method of preparing a composition according to claim 19, comprising mixing a compound according to formula (I) with a heat transfer fluid.
 66. A method of preparing a composition according to claims 19 to 32, comprising mixing the product of claims 46 to 60 with a heat transfer fluid.
 67. A method according to claim 65 or 66 wherein the heat transfer fluid comprises one or more compounds selected from the group of (hydro)fluoroolefins (HFOs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and hydrocarbons.
 68. A method according to claim 67 wherein the heat transfer fluid comprises one or more compounds selected from the group of R-1234ze, R-1234yf, R-1243zf, R1123, R-1132a, R1336mzz, R-134a, R-152a, R-32, R-161, R-125, R-134, propane, propylene, carbon dioxide, R-245fa, R-236fa, R-227ea, R-143a, n-butane, iso-butane and R-365mfc.
 69. A method according to claim 67 wherein the heat transfer fluid comprises one or more compounds selected from the group of R-1234ze, R-1234yf, R-1243zf, R-134a, R-152a and R-32.
 70. A method according to claim 67 wherein the heat transfer fluid comprises R-1234ze.
 71. A method according to claim 67 wherein the heat transfer fluid comprises R-1234yf.
 72. Use of a composition according to any one of claims 19 to 32 as a heat transfer agent.
 73. The use according to claim 72, wherein the heat transfer agent comprises at least two compounds according to formula (I).
 74. The use of a compound according to formula (I) as a lubricant, for example, in heat transfer applications.
 75. The use according to claim 74, wherein the lubricant comprises at least two compounds according to formula (I). 